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A Level Physics Tutor

Moving Charges in a Magnetic Field

Introduction
 

A moving charged particle experiences a force when it enters a magnetic field. This force acts at right angles to both the direction of motion and the magnetic field, causing the particle to follow a curved path. Understanding this behaviour is essential for explaining devices such as particle accelerators, mass spectrometers and cyclotrons, and forms an important part of the AQA A Level Physics course.
 

AQA A Level Physics Specification: 3.7.4.2 Moving Charges in a Magnetic Field
 

What You Need to Know
 

  • State that a moving charged particle experiences a force in a magnetic field.

  • Describe the direction of the magnetic force using Fleming's Left-Hand Rule (for conventional current) and apply it to charged particles.

  • Explain that the magnetic force acts perpendicular to both the magnetic field and the particle's velocity.

  • Understand why a charged particle moving perpendicular to a uniform magnetic field follows a circular path.

  • Calculate the magnetic force acting on a moving charged particle.

  • Apply equations involving magnetic flux density, charge, velocity and force.

  • Explain how the magnetic force provides the centripetal force for circular motion.

  • Solve quantitative problems involving charged particles moving in magnetic fields.
     

Downloadable Topic Pack
 

Moving Charges in a Magnetic Field Topic Pack Exam Questions and Answers

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